There is extensive research on how combat exposure affects mental health outcomes such as posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression, but far less is known about its effects on sexual self-esteem and relational confidence. This article aims to explore this understudied area of research by presenting empirical evidence from studies on soldiers' postdeployment sexual functioning.
Combat veterans often report problems with their sexual lives after returning home from deployment. These issues may include reduced desire, performance anxiety, difficulty achieving orgasm, premature ejaculation, vaginal dryness, erectile dysfunction, painful intercourse, and negative body image. Some studies suggest that these difficulties can persist for years after deployment.
Other factors besides combat trauma may also contribute to sexual dysfunctions, including preexisting psychological conditions, physical injuries, substance abuse, age, and social isolation. To date, no study has investigated the impact of combat exposure exclusively on sexual self-esteem or relational confidence in male and female veterans.
Studies have found that some veterans experience decreased sexual self-esteem due to feelings of shame and guilt related to their perceived lack of masculinity or femininity. Others struggle with intimacy and trust issues after witnessing extreme violence and death during wartime. Veterans with PTSD are more likely to report lower levels of sexual satisfaction than those without it, possibly because they feel emotionally numb or detached during sex.
Relationship dynamics may be affected by changes in communication patterns resulting from deployments, which can lead to conflict and disconnection.
Some veterans reported increased relational confidence as a result of their military service. This may be due to greater emotional resilience, self-reliance, and adaptability developed through training and experience in high-stress environments. Further research is needed to understand how different types of combat experiences, such as direct or indirect exposure to warfare, influence these outcomes.
What impact does combat exposure have on sexual self-esteem and relational confidence?
According to research, combat experience may significantly influence an individual's sexual identity and gender role perception. A study by McNally & Haugland (2019) found that male veterans who had engaged in combat reported lower levels of masculinity and more negative attitudes towards femininity compared to noncombatant counterparts.